Support for the US military action against Iran has been visible on the streets of Sweden, Switzerland, France, and Finland, with rallies calling for regime change in Iran led by Iranian expatriates.
Many Iranians taking refuge in neighboring Turkey, such as Reza, have expressed a mix of nervousness and excitement over the US military strikes on Iran. Reza, like many other Iranian exiles, has been anxiously waiting by his phone since news of Israeli and American airstrikes on Iran broke out.
Despite concerns for the safety of their loved ones back home, most Iranian exiles have told the Agence France-Presse that they are energized by the airstrikes. President Trump had threatened airstrikes on Iran back in January in response to the Iranian regime’s crackdown on its people, leading to tens of thousands of deaths.
“America is attacking military bases in Iran, attacking those who were killing our children just 40 days ago, so they are now helping us,” Reza told the Agence France-Presse. “War is not good, people will die, but I am happy it’s finally happening.”
Filmmaker Ali expressed his agreement, saying, “The Iranian people are now filled with hope, they are very, very happy. Iranians have been waiting for the US to destroy this regime.”
According to the BBC, reactions to the attacks in Iran vary greatly, with some areas engulfed in fear while others feel relieved at the prospect of the regime crumbling.
Residents in several Iranian cities reported hearing loud explosions around 9:40 AM local time. Videos circulating on social media showed people fleeing in panic near explosion sites, cries and screams filling the background.
Some individuals were seen dancing at bus stops and on the streets, celebrating the US-Israeli military operations. In one video shot from a rooftop, a woman’s voice can be heard laughing, saying, “They (US-Israel) have attacked the residence of the supreme leader (in Iran).” Another clip shows a young student shouting, “I love Trump.”
Following the US military strikes, Iranians seem notably unalarmed, jokingly asking, “Where are they going to strike next? Just not us.”
Many Iranians had anticipated American airstrikes and their reactions are understandably complex.
One online user wrote, “The damn Islamic dictatorship, it’s because of them that this war has been provoked. We have already experienced three wars.”
For many, having just endured one of the bloodiest crackdowns in modern history, the prospect of regime change is welcomed, with an understanding of the challenges that lie ahead.
Concerns persist that airstrikes alone may not be enough to topple the regime, with fears of the current authorities becoming even more brutal towards their own people.
Footage from the Iranian capital showed major roads clogged with vehicles after a series of attacks by the US and Israel, causing chaos and congestion.
An engineer from Tabriz, Mehdi, maintained contact with his family back home despite the internet shutdown, describing preparations for potential war, including stockpiling food and considering moving to rural areas.
“We never thought our country would be on the brink of war. It is the cruel rule of the mullahs that has brought us to this situation,” Mehdi remarked. “We want freedom and democracy, but it won’t be easy. The days ahead will be tough, but Iran will overcome this. We will get through it.”
After the joint US-Israeli military action against Iran, President Trump urged the Iranian people to take control of their destiny and not miss the opportunity.
Trump addressed the Iranian people, saying, “Your moment for freedom is coming.” He warned them to stay indoors as it is dangerous outside due to the bombings.
“When the American mission is completed, you will take over the Iranian government, it will belong to you,” the President stated. “This may be your only chance for generations.”
Some Iranian expatriates believe that the US-Israeli airstrikes may once again spark widespread protests in Iran, potentially leading to the overthrow of the authoritarian regime.
“People are furious – tens of thousands have died in the protests, they are thirsting for revenge,” Reza said. “This is their best chance.”
Nina, a young woman in her thirties from Tabriz, also hopes the airstrikes will reignite protests.
“If we don’t overthrow this regime now, massacres will happen again,” she warned.
Others are already looking towards the future, hoping for a democratic transition in the country – some placing their hopes on Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran, who has emerged as a prominent figure in recent protests.
“Every Iranian is ready: as soon as Prince Pahlavi orders us to return, we won’t waste a moment,” said Amir Hossein, a singer from Tehran. “We will return and build a bright Iran together.”